How to Tell Whether You Have Medicare or Medicaid

The Fastest Way to Know Which Program You Have

The simplest way to find out is to look at your insurance card. If the card says Medicare on it, you have Medicare. If it says Medicaid, you have Medicaid. The card will be in your name and will have a member ID number on it. You may have both cards if you are enrolled in both programs — this is called being "dual may be able to access."

If you cannot find your card, you can call the program directly. For Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). For Medicaid, call your state's Medicaid office — the number is on your state's Medicaid website, or you can dial 211 and ask for your state's Medicaid hotline.

You can also log into your account online. Medicare has an account portal at Medicare.gov. Medicaid accounts vary by state — your state's Medicaid website will have a login option, usually labeled "Check Your Status" or "My Account."

Key Takeaways

Your insurance card will clearly state whether you have Medicare or Medicaid, and you should have received it in the mail when you enrolled.
You can call 1-800-MEDICARE for Medicare questions, or your state Medicaid office for Medicaid questions — 211 can connect you to your state office.
Some people have both Medicare and Medicaid at the same time, which means you will have two separate cards.
If you have never received a card or cannot locate yours, calling the program is faster than waiting for a replacement to arrive by mail.

What Your Medicare Card Looks Like

A Medicare card is about the size of a credit card and has a red, white, and blue header with the word "MEDICARE" printed across the top. Your name appears on the front, along with your Medicare number (a nine-digit number followed by a letter). The card also shows the date your coverage began.

There are different types of Medicare coverage — Original Medicare (Parts A and B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), and prescription drug coverage (Part D). Your card will indicate which parts you have. If you have Medicare Advantage, your card may look slightly different because it is issued by a private insurance company, but it will still say "Medicare" on it and will have your Medicare number.

What Your Medicaid Card Looks Like

A Medicaid card varies by state because each state runs its own Medicaid program. The card will have the word "Medicaid" on it, your name, and a member ID number. Some states print the card in color; others use black and white. The back of the card usually lists customer service numbers and may show which services are covered.

Some states no longer mail physical cards — instead, you receive a letter confirming your coverage, and you can show that letter to doctors and hospitals. A few states use a digital card that you can display on your phone. If you are unsure whether you have a card coming or how to prove your coverage, call your state Medicaid office.

How to Check Your Coverage Status Online

If you have Medicare, go to Medicare.gov and click "Sign In" in the upper right corner. You will need to create an account using your email address and a password. Once logged in, you can see your coverage details, including which parts of Medicare you have and when your coverage started.

For Medicaid, the process depends on your state. Most states have a Medicaid portal on their health department or social services website. Search "[Your State] Medicaid login" or "[Your State] Medicaid account" to find it. You will typically need your member ID number or Social Security number to log in. If you do not know your member ID, call your state Medicaid office and they can look it up for you.

What to Do If You Cannot Find Your Card

Request a replacement card by calling the program directly. For Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE and a representative will mail you a new card within 7 to 10 business days. For Medicaid, call your state office — replacement cards usually arrive within 2 to 3 weeks, though some states can issue temporary proof of coverage over the phone.

While you wait for your card, you can still receive care. Bring your Social Security number and a photo ID to your doctor or hospital, and tell them you are waiting for your card. Most providers can look up your coverage in their system using your Social Security number. If you need proof of coverage before your card arrives, ask your state Medicaid office or Medicare to email or mail you a coverage letter.

If You Think You Have Both Medicare and Medicaid

You will have two separate cards if you are enrolled in both programs. This happens when you are 65 or older and also have a low enough income to may have access to for Medicaid, or when you are under 65 and may have access to for both Medicare (usually through disability) and your state's Medicaid program.

Having both programs is called being "dual may be able to access." In this case, Medicare is your primary insurance and Medicaid is your secondary — Medicare pays first, and Medicaid covers costs that Medicare does not. You should carry both cards with you when you go to the doctor. Tell your provider that you have both programs so they bill correctly.

If You Are Not Sure You Have Either Program

If you do not have a card and are not sure whether you are covered, call 211 and ask to be connected to your state Medicaid office or Medicare. A representative can tell you whether you are enrolled and can explain what coverage you have. Have your Social Security number ready when you call.

You can also visit your local health department or social services office in person. Bring your Social Security number and photo ID. Staff there can look up your coverage status and answer questions about what services are covered under your plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have both Medicare and Medicaid at the same time?

Yes. If you are 65 or older with a low income, or if you are under 65 and may have access to for Medicare through disability, you may be enrolled in both programs. You will receive two separate cards. Medicare pays first, and Medicaid covers remaining costs.

What if I lost my card and need to see a doctor today?

Bring your Social Security number and photo ID to your appointment. Your doctor's office can look up your coverage in their system using your Social Security number. You can also call the program (1-800-MEDICARE or your state Medicaid office) and ask them to email or fax proof of coverage to your provider.

How long does it take to receive a replacement card?

Medicare replacement cards arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Medicaid replacement cards typically arrive within 2 to 3 weeks, though timelines vary by state. Some states can issue temporary proof of coverage by phone or email while you wait.

What if my card says something other than Medicare or Medicaid?

You may have a Medicare Advantage plan, which is a type of Medicare run by a private insurance company. The card will still say "Medicare" on it and will have your Medicare number. If your card says something else entirely, call 211 and describe the card — they can help you figure out what program you have.

Do I need my card to receive care?

You should bring your card to every appointment, but if you do not have it, you can still receive care. Provide your Social Security number and photo ID, and your provider can look up your coverage. Request a replacement card so you have it for future visits.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.